Genesis 43:23 - He said, “Peace be to you. Don’t be afraid. Your God, and the God of your father, has given you treasure in your sacks. I received your money.” He brought Simeon out to them.

Generated Verse: Genesis 43:23

What does "Genesis 43:23" mean?


This verse is part of the story of Joseph reuniting with his brothers in Egypt. Here's a breakdown of what it means:

Context: Joseph, who was sold into slavery by his brothers years earlier, is now a powerful official in Egypt. His brothers have come to Egypt to buy grain due to a famine in their homeland. Unbeknownst to them, they are dealing with Joseph.

"He said, 'Peace be to you. Don't be afraid.'" - The "he" here refers to the steward of Joseph's house. Joseph is orchestrating these events but remains hidden from his brothers for now. The steward is reassuring the brothers, likely because they were worried about being accused of theft (since Joseph had secretly placed their money back in their sacks). "Peace be to you" is a common greeting, wishing them well.

"Your God, and the God of your father, has given you treasure in your sacks." - The steward is trying to calm their fears by attributing the returned money to a divine act. This is likely a deliberate act by Joseph, to test his brothers' character and to see if they have changed since they sold him into slavery. It suggests that God is involved in their situation. This also references back to the covenant God made with Abraham (their father), emphasizing the brothers' heritage and identity.

"I received your money." - This confirms that they indeed paid for the grain, further alleviating their suspicions of being accused of theft. It's another attempt to put them at ease.

"He brought Simeon out to them." - Simeon was held captive by Joseph after the brothers' first visit to Egypt, as a condition for their return with their youngest brother, Benjamin. Now that they have fulfilled this condition, Simeon is released. This is a crucial step in Joseph's plan to test his brothers and ultimately reveal himself to them.

In Summary:

The steward, under Joseph's direction, is manipulating the situation. He is reassuring the brothers while subtly hinting at divine intervention. The release of Simeon is a sign that the brothers have fulfilled their obligation. The whole scene is designed to test the brothers' integrity and pave the way for Joseph's eventual revelation.

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